This site is a sort of museum in cyberspace full of odds and ends about life in Budleigh Salterton.
It celebrates among other things the connection between our corner of East Devon - birthplace of both Sir Walter Raleigh and Roger Conant, founder of Salem, Massachusetts - and the United States of America.
The site was inspired by the friendship link established in 2001 with the Cape Cod community of Brewster.

Thursday, 22 July 2010

Surreal and arresting imagery from printmaker Chris Orr on show at Budleigh Salterton's Brook Gallery

Speaking on the topic ‘The importance of printmaking’, Professor Chris Orr is certainly more than qualified to present on the art form which has formed the basis of his career. Graduating with an MA in printmaking from the Royal College of Art, the Royal Academician has worked with prints for much of his life, producing and exhibiting pieces on a variety of subjects, but behind each one there lies a story which has provided the inspiration for the work.

Chris Orr, left, during a previous visit to the Brook Gallery

Orr’s contribution to printmaking has received national recognition through his election as a Royal Academician, his appointment as a Professor of Printmaking at the Royal College of Art, an MBE and a Senior Fellowship and Professor Emeritus from the Royal College of Art, all testament to his skill and experience. His enthusiasm for the subject promises a passionate and informed exploration of his favoured medium.

Work by Henry Moore also on show at the Brook Gallery

The event on Saturday 24 July comes at the start of a new exhibition at the Brook which sees work from not only Professor Chris Orr, but also the distinctive styles of David Hockney and Henry Moore. London is the primary influence for Orr, although pieces inspired by his recent visit to New York are also included, tying together the two cities to produce a truly ‘NYlon-esque’ exhibit. Also on show are Moore’s abstract depictions of the human form, which feature alongside Hockney’s illustrations to create a display showcasing the finest in draughtsmanship.

'That Old Chestnut: the importance of printmaking' is on Saturday 24 July at 4.00 pm, at the Brook Gallery (please call for an invitation).

An exhibition of work by Professor Chris Orr MBE, David Hockney and Henry Moore will take place from 23 July to 25 August 2010.

About Me

Born in 1946, in Birmingham UK, of Scottish-Irish parentage, and brought up as a Roman Catholic. Early education may have driven me into teaching, in the belief that schools should offer a more enjoyable experience for children. Studied French at London University, specialising in 16th century literature. Then came 34 years of teaching French, along with red herrings and common sense, at Oundle School, Northamptonshire. Published articles in Etudes Rabelaisiennes, (a long time ago), and a couple of books - one big 'Oundle's War' (1995) - and one small 'The Scientist in The Cottage' (2013) - a biography of Henry Carter FRS (1813-95). Dabbles, and some people say meddles, in many areas. A passionate gardener, moved to Devon partly to grow ericaceous plants more easily. Other interests include family, cycling, walking, photography, reading, music, studying butterflies, chopping wood, DIY, playing on the scaffold tower, and networking for the Greater Good. Married to Anthea for over 40 years. Three children: Emily, Simeon and Rosanna, three granddaughters and two Bengal cats. Like an increasing number of my friends of my generation, I'm a cancer survivor – I hope!